Maseru, Feb. 11 — Monthly pension payments for elderly citizens have been delayed, causing hardship for many, the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development says the issue is being resolved.
Mrs. Mpho Makhetha, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, urged elderly citizens to remain calm, explaining that the payment system is currently experiencing slower processing times than usual.
She indicated that payments, particularly for beneficiaries around Maseru and surrounding areas, are expected to be processed soon, with some likely to reflect as early as on Friday.
Mrs. ‘Mamatona Mabokoane (81), a citizen of Ha Moitšupeli Roma, who receives her money through Mpesa, stated that in her two years of using Mpesa, the payments had never been delayed, this is the first time it has happened.
With visible distress, she is calling on the government to resolve the issue speedily.
“I am hungry, I need to pay my insurance, I owe people money and I even borrowed money to go for a medical check-up,” she said.
She said she survives by making traditional Basotho cultural attire. Her business depends on orders from customers, and right now, orders are piling up. But without her monthly payment, she cannot afford to buy additional stock to continue her business.
Mr. Pitso Halafu (74), a resident of Mathokoane , who receives his money through Ecocash, said the payments do not come on a consistent date, leaving them confused and anxious every month.
“This situation confuses us, we are asking for one fixed payment date so that we can plan our lives. Right now, we do not even know what the real problem is. We do not know why the money has not come,” he emphasised.
He added that while digital payments were meant to make life easier, they have instead brought stress and uncertainty. He also said that getting payments by cash was better because the phone systems are troubling them.
For these elderly citizens, the issue goes beyond inconvenience. It affects their ability to eat, access healthcare, pay debts, and sustain small businesses that support their communities.
The delays have caused concern among elderly beneficiaries, but the government has assured the public that the situation is temporary and is being addressed with urgency.
The Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all grants are processed soon and has appealed for patience as the payment system returns to normal.
Ends/MAF/tl
